Cruising to Dubrovnik, Croatia

When Croatia is a stop on a European cruise itinerary, more often than not the port of call is Dubrovnik. Dubrovnik, dubbed as the Pearl of the Adriatic, is one of Croatia’s most recognizable and famous cities.  However more and more European cruise itineraries are also including Split, Croatia. 

Here’s some ideas on how to spend the day in Dubrovnik:

The city walls are considered to be one of the most grandiose fortification monuments in Europe They stretch completely around Dubrovnik’s Old Town, a distance totaling 1.2 miles and a walk on top of the walls  ( there’s a charge of about $10) is a must do on your visit to Dubrovnik.  Bring a water bottle and try to head up early or the heat can be quite uncomfortable.

Take the cable car to the summit of Mount Srd for the stunning panoramic views! After snapping your photos sit with a cold drink at the mountain top café. Those of you that want a bit more exercise can hike up or down but plan accordingly; most people can do it in under 2 hours.

Interested in history? Some say that Dubrovnik’s 12th-century Cathedral was financed by Richard the Lion-Heart who, on his return from the Third Crusade, was shipwrecked off the island of Lokrum. Saved by the citizens of Dubrovnik, he was so grateful he gave a substantial gift to finance the church. Today it is home to an extraordinary reliquary museum containing more than 200 ornate gold and silver reliquaries.

The Franciscan Monastery and Pharmacy which dates back to 1234 is also worth a visit. Within the monastery's solid stone walls is a gorgeous mid-14th-century cloister, a historic pharmacy and a small museum with a collection of relics and liturgical objects.

The Rector's Palace, built in the mid 15^th century is a stunning combination of Gothic, Renaissance, and Baroque styles. Originally the center of government in the old Dubrovnik Republic, today the palace has been turned into the Cultural History Museum. There are beautifully restored rooms to view, art work, coins minted by the Republic, the original keys of the city gates, and other worthy historical items.

Next week: Split, Croatia